Palawan: Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise

Thinking about a day out on the water in Palawan? This Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers a relaxing yet adventure-filled escape just half an hour from the city. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking to combine scenic beaches, underwater sights, and a taste of Filipino hospitality—all for a reasonable price.

What immediately catches your eye with this tour are the inclusion of hotel pickup and a lunch, making it a hassle-free experience. Plus, the chance to meet fellow travelers in a small group adds a convivial atmosphere. On the downside, the 9-hour duration might feel long if you’re not used to a full day of island hopping. Still, for those craving a taste of island life without straying far from Palawan’s capital, this tour hits the right notes. If you’re a traveler who enjoys a relaxed day with plenty of time to explore and take photos, this experience will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel
• Includes guided commentary and lunch
• Visit three unique islands with different attractions
• Affordable price point considering transport and entrance fees
• Small group setting enhances a personalized experience
• Ideal for those wanting a mix of relaxation and adventure

When we think of Palawan, the image of pristine beaches and vibrant marine life often springs to mind. While many travelers focus on the underground river or diving hotspots, Honda Bay offers an accessible glimpse of island paradise without needing extensive logistics or expensive excursions. Located on the eastern shore of Puerto Princesa, these tiny islands are perfect for a day of swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

This tour, priced at around $37 per person, strikes a good balance between cost and experience. It’s a great way to see three different islands—Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island—each offering its own charm. The inclusion of hotel pickup and boat transfers simplifies logistics, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a hassle-free outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Pickup and Departure

Most tours begin early morning with hotel pickup, so you’ll want to be ready in your hotel lobby. The guide will call or wave to you, and from there, you’ll board a motorized boat. The boat ride itself takes about 30 minutes to reach Honda Bay, offering a comfortable and scenic start to your day.

First Stop: Starfish Island

This is where the tour gets its name—starfish are the star attraction here. As you step onto the beach, you’ll notice the shallow waters teeming with these fascinating creatures. We loved the way the guides encourage responsible interaction with marine life, making sure we don’t damage these delicate animals. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and a quick swim.

Second Stop: Luli Island

Luli Island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can walk along the sandbar that connects it to the main island at low tide, or simply relax with your feet in the warm water. The island is perfect for lounging or taking a dip. Here, you’ll often find options for watersports, though rentals like masks and snorkels usually cost extra. The reviews mention having plenty of time at each stop to enjoy, which is vital when you’re trying to soak in the scenery rather than rush through it all.

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Third Stop: Cowrie Island

This island offers a more developed resort setting with facilities for snorkeling and other watersports. The tour includes a picnic lunch, usually Filipino cuisine, which travelers find satisfying after a morning of swimming and exploring. The relaxed vibe makes it easy to just kick back and enjoy the surroundings.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One review beautifully sums up the tour as “small group, plenty of time at each stop to enjoy.” This highlights the benefit of the tour’s intimate setting—you’re not just a face in a crowd. Plus, with guides speaking both English and Tagalog, the information about marine life and islands is accessible and engaging.

Many travelers appreciate the value for money, especially considering that the tour covers boat transfers, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch. While you might need to pay an additional PHP 150 environmental fee and rent snorkel gear separately, the overall cost remains reasonable.

Some reviews note the tour’s length (around 9 hours)—which might be a lot for some, especially if you prefer shorter trips or have other plans later in the day. But the benefit is a well-paced day with enough time at each island for relaxing, swimming, or exploring.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

What to bring: Pack a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for your valuables and electronics. Since the tour involves significant time in the sun, sun protection is essential.

What’s not included: The tour mentions the environmental fee (PHP 150 per person), which you will need cash for. Also, mask, snorkel, and aqua-shoes rentals are extra, so bring your own if you want to save money or ensure a good fit.

Suitability: The tour isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness, as it involves boat travel. It’s also family-friendly, but young children should be comfortable with snorkeling or swimming.

The Value of the Honda Bay Tour

For just about $37, this tour provides an accessible taste of Palawan’s island wonders. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a full day of exploring without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals. The inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, and entrance fees means you won’t be surprised by hidden costs, making it easier to plan your day.

While it’s not a deep-dive into Palawan’s remote or more rugged attractions, Honda Bay offers a beautiful, relaxed, and authentic experience of Filipino island life. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides contribute to a comfortable and memorable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This island hopping cruise suits travelers who want a convenient, all-inclusive day trip with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of tropical paradise without a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city to enjoy white sandy beaches and marine life, this tour is a good pick.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer quiet, less crowded spots, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly. It’s best for those who enjoy social atmospheres and guided experiences rather than independent exploration.

The Honda Bay Island Hopping Cruise offers a straightforward, well-organized way to see some of Palawan’s best islands without stretching your travel budget. You’ll appreciate the friendly guides, the variety of islands, and the lunch included in the package. It balances relaxation and adventure in a way that makes it suitable for most travelers looking for a fun, scenic day out.

This trip is especially perfect if you value small group interactions, want to avoid logistical headaches, and enjoy the idea of spending your day floating, swimming, and snapping photos of tropical beaches. It’s a solid choice for those wanting authentic, accessible island life without the need for complex planning.

While it’s a full day, the relaxed pace and beautiful scenery make it worth the time. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, waterproof bag, and a sense of adventure—Honda Bay awaits.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 9 hours, including hotel pickup, boat rides, and time at each island. Check the available starting times to plan accordingly.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, a picnic lunch, motorized boat transfer, life vests, and all island entrance and wharf fees.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a PHP 150 environmental fee per person on-site. Snorkel mask and snorkel gear rentals are not included and are paid separately if you choose to rent.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if children are comfortable with swimming and boat rides. However, those prone to seasickness should consider their tolerance.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag to protect your valuables from water and sun. If you have your own snorkel gear, bring that along to save on rental costs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is there a guide providing commentary?
Yes, guides speak both English and Tagalog and share information about the islands and marine life during the trip.

How crowded are the islands?
While the tour is designed for small groups, the islands can be busy during peak season. The tour offers enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery, but some areas may be more crowded than others.

This Honda Bay island hopping experience offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, friendly guide service, and straightforward logistics—all at a price that makes sense for most travelers. Whether you’re after a laid-back beach day or a lively trip with new friends, it’s a good way to get a taste of Palawan’s coastal charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby